Abstract

Torque control plays a fundamental role in lingual orthodontics. The efficiency of the archwires is of particular relevance to the user, especially the precise control in the third order. To achieve a clinically efficient torque control does not only involve the use of torque in the archwire but even more so preciseness of the archwire engaging in the bracket slot. This study describes the extent of dental malalignment in the third order that can be corrected using a 0.016″×0.022″ NiTi, 0.018″×0.022″ NiTi and 0.016″×0.024″ SS archwires. The results highlight that stainless steel ligatures do not offer a reproducible clinical advantage in torque control.